I am a new DSLR user and will be getting a telephoto within 1 year.
However, I am thinking to trade in my current kit lens then add some more to get a Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5~6.3. So far the reviews I read about Tamron 18-200mm is ok.

So I am seeking for professional ideas whether it is a good choice to trade some minimum aperture (f/6.3 instead of 5.6) for a cheaper, more convenient Tamron 18-200mm.

Hi, I may not give any professional opinion, just the regular one
Imho the lens choices is depend on your future use.
If you planned for a daily shooting then it will be a reasonable choices.
You also can always bring a tripod for low light shoot.

I think the outcome of the aperture difference won't be big. It all depends on you. They each have their pros and cons.

Kit + Telephoto
Pros - Sharper images
Cons - Troublesome

All in one
Pros - Convenient
Cons - Lower image quality

They're both almost equal. If you think that you'll be changing lenses very often then get the all in one. Otherwise the combo would be a better choice.

This post has been edited by Newbieeeeee: Mar 22 2014, 12:21 AM

before making an investment on lenses, do ask yourself what do you want to shoot more.

first of all, prime telephoto and zoom telephoto are 2 different types of lenses all together.

Usually when we talk about telephoto zoom lenses we often calculate the ratio of zoom. like for example the 18-200 that you are looking to purchase right now, 18:200 is 1:11 where if you are at the tip of the lens (200mm) picture quality might deteriorate and compromised sharpness and detail on the side of the picture taken. The middle portion is always ok.

Try getting lower ratio lenses, and you will be a better off with the lens.

ultimate travel lens of course it would be great to have the 18-200mm tammy but try getting the 18-300mm nikon VR if you are a nikon user. Other manufacturer for DSLR, i am not so sure if they have the mentioned lens. Of course with even higher ration lens for the 18-300mm, the mentioned above deterioration still applies.

If you are looking for a wildlife photography, i would suggest you go with prime. you will never go wrong. The 300mm f4 AFS from nikon is a good start, other manufacturer like canon, you should be good with a 400mm f5.6 lens. if budget is not an issue, do consider these longer lenses...

all and all, it falls back to what do you want to shoot with a telephoto lens. if daily usage of kit lens is more than sufficient, i don see why there is a need / urge to change to a super zoom lens...

PS: i am still using 18-105VR for paid wedding shooting / travel / leisure shooting, 500mm f4 for wildlife birding shoot....

Is Lenshero site reliable?

Thank you to both of you for the reply.
Yes telephoto is a need for me and I often need a longer focal length anytime my inspiration strikes.

I am on budget while kit lens is highly insufficient for me. What's your opinion on trading in kit lens? Many tell me to keep kit lens no matter what, and yes I am aware that I will have no lens if the new Tamron 18-200mm is broken someday.